It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Eugene W. Schmitz, a beloved patriarch, community leader, and true American patriot. Eugene, aged 95, peacefully departed from this world on Saturday, December 23, 2023, surrounded by the warmth of his Tower Hill home.
Born on September 5, 1928, in Shelby County, IL, to the late Winand and Ludvina Schmitz, Eugene’s journey was one marked by resilience, service, and unwavering dedication. Eugene’s life story is one of remarkable service to his country and community. A veteran of the Korean War, he proudly served in the U.S. Army and later had the privilege of participating in the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight, a testament to his commitment to duty and honor.
As a devoted husband, Eugene was united in marriage to Jean Swiney on July 7, 1956, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, sharing 59 beautiful years together until her passing on October 1, 2015. Their union brought forth a loving family that Eugene cherished with all his heart. Eugene’s impact extended beyond his military service.
He served on the Tower Hill High School Board of Education for two decades, contributing to the growth and development of the local educational landscape. His dedication further manifested in an 11-year tenure on the Moultry/Shelby FS Board.
A man of many talents, Eugene worked at Caterpillar, ran a sawmill for 28 years, and remained a devoted farmer. His industrious spirit was matched only by his love for family and community. Eugene was known for his commitment to hard work, integrity, and the simple joy of helping others without expecting anything in return.
Eugene leaves behind a legacy of love through his surviving children—Barbara Wilson, John Schmitz, James Schmitz, and Paul Schmitz. Grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings Rosemary Huttes and Leland Schmitz will fondly remember him. Eugene was preceded in death by daughters Carol Ulmer, Maureen, and Colleen Schmitz, grandson Daniel Schmitz, daughter-in-law Kristine Schmitz, and siblings Raymond, Lester, and Clarence Schmitz.
A Mass to celebrate Eugene’s life will be held on Thursday, December 28, at 10 a.m. in St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Pana, with burial at Glenwood Cemetery, Shelbyville, accompanied by military honors by the Pana Veterans Honor Guard.
Visitation will take place on Wednesday, December 27, from 6-8 p.m. at McCracken-Dean Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Sacred Heart Catholic School, honoring Eugene’s legacy of care and compassion.
